Chicken Cordon Blue

(from the Taste of Home Cookbook)

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
2 Tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 thin slices fully cooked ham
4 thin slices Swiss cheese (I use Provolone)
4 strips bacon (can leave this out for a healthier meal, but my husband likes it with)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup flour
3/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Flatten chicken breast to 1/8 in thickness; spread butter on the insides. Sprinkle with thyme. Top with a slice of ham and cheese; roll up tightly. Wrap each chicken with a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks.

In a small bowl, beat eggs and milk. Place flour in another bowl. Combine the bread crumbs, garlic powder, oregano and cheese. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture; coat with flour. Dip each again into the egg mixture, then coat with crumbs.

Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.

Yield: 4 servings